Hampshire To Miss Out On Shahid Afridi

Shahid Afridi's decision to end his retirement from Test cricket and captain his country means he will not now feature for Hampshire as an overseas player in the Friends Provident t20 competition.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) unveiled Afridi as their captain for the Asia Cup and the upcoming tour of England earlier today (25th May) and Afridi told Hampshire:

“The chance to be the captain for the Asia cup and of the Tour of England in the summer was too big an opportunity for me to turn down.

“I am regretful that I am unable to take up my role at Hampshire, but look forward to seeing my compatriot Abdul Razzaq performing well for The Royals and insh'allah the team doing well in the competition.

“I will be looking out for Hampshire's results over the summer."

Despite also being named in Pakistan's squad of probables for both the Asia Cup and the England tour, Razzaq is still expected to turn out for the Hampshire Royals.

Giles White, Hampshire First XI Team Manager added:

“We are disappointed that Shahid won’t be a part of the team for this season. A player of his class and influence will definitely be missed.

“However, we fully understand his decision and we still expect to challenge strongly for this year’s competition, especially as we have the incentive of the Friends Provident t20 Finals Day being at The Rose Bowl on the 14th August.

“We wish Shahid all the very best in his Pakistan commitments and look forward to seeing him at The Rose Bowl in September.”

Pakistan play England in a One-Day International at The Rose Bowl on 22nd September.